It's true that the nicotine in tobacco products reduces your appetite
and perks you up when you feel your energy level drop because of hunger. But
those effects don't last long, and before you know it, you're hungry
again.
Using smoking to maintain a lower body weight has other drawbacks.
Smoking does nothing for your muscle tone. You might weigh less, but you won't
have the toned muscles or the increased energy that comes with maintaining a
lower weight through exercise and eating right.
If you are smoking because you are afraid of the weight you may put
on when you quit, remember that not everyone gains weight when they
quit.
The keys to maintaining a healthy body weight are to eat well and get
enough exercise.
- For tips on creating a balanced diet that will
help you keep your energy level up, reduce your cravings for fatty snacks, and
help you maintain a healthy weight, see the topic Healthy
Eating.
- For more information about managing your appetite and
maintaining a healthy body weight through regular exercise, see the topic
Fitness.
| By | Healthwise Staff |
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| Primary Medical Reviewer | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine |
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| Specialist Medical Reviewer | John Hughes, MD - Psychiatry |
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| Last Revised | July 6, 2011 |
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